HOLSWORTHY councillor Des Shadrick has welcomed the news that Ruby Country has been selected to develop off road horse riding routes in Devon.

Ruby Country is to become one of three trial areas in Devon that have been selected to develop horse-riding routes and facilities. Devon County Council has allocated £250,000 from the sale of Exeter Airport to pilot the scheme in three of the county's most scenic areas.

Cllr Shadrick said he was "delighted" that Ruby Country had been selected: "Devon is already recognised as one of the 'horsiest' counties in Britain with equestrian tourism worth over £30 million to Devon's economy.

"Readers of the 'Post', if they drive to Okehampton, will see the new bridleway being created on the old railway line. It is hoped to link this to Cookworthy Forest and the forest paths around Halwill."

County, district and town councillor, Des Shadrick said that within three years it would be possible to ride off road from Holsworthy to Dartmoor. He added: "This would put us, within Ruby Country, in with an opportunity of bringing new wealth from a market with huge potential for future growth."

Cllr Shadrick believed the bridle route along the Broadbury ridge beyond Halwill offered some of the best long distance views in southern England.

He said: "Tim Smit of Eden said a visit to the countryside must be a quality experience. Holsworthy, with our Ruby Way cycleway and these opportunities for quality off road horse riding routes, would provide that quality experience."